Bronx residents looking to keep cool by using fire hydrants should think twice

Bronx residents looking to keep cool this summer by using water from fire hydrants should think twice before opening one.

Fire officials say opening a fire hydrant without a firefighter present is illegal. However, residents looking for a safe alternative should go down to their local fire department and ask to have a spray cap put on a hydrant.

Firefighters say the spray cap keeps the pressure down and does not release as much water. City officials say parents should make sure children playing in fire hydrant water are playing in guarded, closed off streets.